Restoring Aleppo pine forests in Tunisia: a project for climate resilience and biodiversity conservation

A new project aimed at restoring degraded Aleppo pine forests will be implemented at the Kasserine governorate of Tunisia. A region chosen for its significant environmental and socio-economic challenges.  

Kasserine is particularly affected by land degradation and the adverse impacts of climate change on forest resources. Its Aleppo pine forests, which form the southernmost natural habitat of the species, act as a crucial barrier against desertification and climate change. The region is known for its rich biodiversity, which can be further supported by strengthening the local economy through sustainable practices. 

The project focuses on adaptive management and restoration of degraded Aleppo pine forests to strengthen resilience to climate change, conserve biodiversity, improve productivity and food security, supporting local economies. It marks a significant step in combating climate change impacts while promoting sustainable forest management. 

A focus on nature-based solutions and stakeholder involvement ensures that the restoration efforts are sustainable and beneficial to the region's rural populations. 

The design is supported by the Forest and Landscape Restoration Mechanism of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). It will be implemented with the support of the Silva Mediterranea Secretariat, as Tunisia is one of its active member countries. 

Key project components include comprehensive stakeholder engagement, capacity assessments, and the development of environmental and social safeguards.  

This project not only seeks to revive a vital ecosystem, but also to improve food security and economic stability in one of Tunisia's most vulnerable regions, contributing to both national and regional restoration efforts.

Satia Ras and Valentina Garavaglia